Worcester, Bosch Group welcomes Part L decision as “sensible outcome”

Martyn Bridges, director of marketing and technical support at Worcester, Bosch Group, said: “Although the requirement for a 6% carbon improvement on 2010 regulations is lower than the 8% originally considered, we shouldn’t underestimate the size of the impact this change is likely to make. The move is certainly a step in the right direction and, crucially, keeps us moving towards the ultimate target of zero-carbon homes.”

Mr Bridges also suggested that the treasury’s involvement might have played a part in watering down the original target. “With the construction sector appearing to be in a state of recovery, it is nevertheless important that we don’t encumber housebuilders with too many additional cost requirements.

“While the dilution of the original proposals may force the sector to push back its 2016 zero-carbon homes target, the most important thing is that the new requirements are practical and maintain the momentum which has already been established. Although in their early stages, the government’s RHI and Green Deal initiatives have begun to position emissions high on the industry’s agenda.

“We might not be able to view the new Part L requirement as the start of a revolution, but it is certainly a sensible outcome for England’s construction sector.”

Joinery sales have risen for the 10th successive quarter but increasing labour and material costs are taking their toll, according to the latest Joinery State of Trade Survey released by the British Woodworking Federation (BWF).